Protein skimmer on or off?

[jenreefer]

That is exactly what I am looking for. So what is the substrate for then?

Mostly for aesthetics. Many people want their reef to look as much like the ocean as possible. But the sand also adds a place for microorganisms to live, just as they do in the ocean. Anything from snails that bury themselves in the sand to beneficial bacteria live in the sand. It is not necessary for a successful reef tank though. Do your research though on what type of fish you want to keep. There are a few species that bury themselves in the sand at night to sleep. For these you want a finer and deeper sand bed.

My best suggestion is to begin with the end in mind. What do you want your finished tank to look like. From here you can work backwards and see what you will need to make it happen.

Jen

 

[Brew12]

What do you want your finished tank to look like. From here you can work backwards and see what you will need to make it happen.

+1!

 

[jenreefer]

http://www.saltwatersmarts.com/aquarium-sand-aragonite-substrate-603/ just an article I googled. have not read it yet.

 

[|sCRIBe|]

I keep my skimmer on during cycling and went with Tahitian moon black substrate

 

[MaiReef]

Miracle mud in the refugium

 

[Arom0024]

I think I'm going to go empty bottom in the refugium make it easier maintence

 

[Arom0024]

I just finished the diy 20 g long sump. Just waiting for it to finish curing.

 

[Arom0024]